The Botanical Garden Plantentuin
De Kleine Boerderij' Plantentuin Merksplas

Stop and smell the roses - and all the other elegant flowers in this exquisite garden area that’s open year round.

• Get your green thumb ready: just a 15 minute drive outside of Turnhout brings you to the green horizons of this outdoor botanical garden. Also referred to as De Kleine Boerderij' Plantentuin, the maze-like garden space is split into different areas with different themed collections. Gaze upon the luscious fruit garden, bamboo forest, geometric garden, and even an area dedicated to beehives!
• Garden history: Before it was an open air green space, the area used to function as a criminal agriculture school. What exactly does that mean? Basically young detainees would be placed on the land to learn how to take care of tree cultivation, livestock farming, and bees! After the land was sold in 1993, the new owner decided to put the main focus on creating a unique green oasis for the whole community to join. The botanical garden is maintained by local volunteers, showing that it really is a group effort to keep this place looking immaculate.
• Hydrangeas, lilies, magnolias, oh my! The garden is filled with all the pretty plants your heart can desire. When visiting you can walk around and explore on your own, or you can book a guided tour to get more info on all the plant life living here. Garden terrace: After taking in all the beauty of the garden, make sure to stop by the cafe for a well deserved snack! There’s also ongoing events with live music, food, and other cultural ongoing events.